Established in January 2004, Forces Children’s Trust was the first British charity to specifically support children whose parent has died or sustained life-changing injuries whilst serving as a member of the British Armed Forces. Denny Wise (Founder) would like to thank all those who have supported the charity over the years and special gratitude to the present Trustees, (Alison Hayes, Caroline Parry and Dr Duncan Dymond).
Over the years we have helped many children and their parent including those who served in the Royal Navy here are the thoughts from 2 of those families:
Karen, widow of Seth SBS – Conspicuous Gallantry Cross
“You enter a state of existence when newly grieving for a loved one and life seems to stand still but when we were introduced to the Forces Children’s Trust we were provided with a safe space where we could connect with others”.
“Through social events and other more challenging activities, whether it be a party and theatre outing or a residential outward bounds trip or an expedition abroad, my two daughters were able to relax and live in the moment with other children similarly carrying experiences of bereavement”.
“The whole Forces Children’s Trust community is embracing and provides support through offering opportunities to build new relationships based on the acceptance felt within the group. Also, the children are encouraged to challenge themselves and portray themselves positively, helping them to grow in confidence and find the strategies they need to manage their emotions and not to be afraid to look ahead”.
“My daughters are all grown up now and successfully making their own ways through life. One is a teacher and the other is working temporarily in Australia. They continue to be in contact with friends made through the Forces Children’s Trust and the contribution made by this worthy charity cannot be underestimated. It offered a place to cry, a place to smile and a place to grow. Many thanks to Denny Wise for his years of commitment and the belief that we can make the world a better place for our children to stride into”.
Georgina, daughter of Lieutenant Commander Chapman
“FCT over the years have provided a wonderful range of opportunities for myself, my family and others, that now are such valued friends. A two week trip to Nepal, organised and funded by the FCT, is a highlighted opportunity we were given. It opened our eyes and brought us all together. To experience such a special trip with those who have suffered the same losses, to come together and share those experiences, this sort of charity is one that makes a huge difference. With a special thanks to Denny, who does an amazing job and fuelled this charity for 20 years”.
The FCT offers physical activity support to young people who have experienced bereavement. From participating in expeditions abroad, residential weeks away, the children gain valuable life-skills to help them cope and adjust to life without a parent. There are many other aspects that the charity can help with, including, organising bereavement counselling, help with extra-curricular lessons plus many other situations. The children along with their parent feel part of a family unit within the FCT and they support one another.
In addition, other areas where the Charity can help families in need, include children/young people whose serving parent is suffering with PTSD. These children and young people receive the same opportunities and advice and are able to participate in all events and other aspects that the charity offers.
Children who are carers and those who may be dealing with domestic violence may also be helped.
Denny Wise told us about some examples of what the charity has organised for some of the FCT youngsters over the years;
“We have held FCT Outward Bound weeks at centres in the Lake District and Wales. All the youngsters had an amazing adventure although it was challenging at times! There are theatre trips and other great events. In December we have our annual Christmas weekend the children always look forward to this highlight of the FCT calendar!
Following on from the very successful adventure expedition to Nepal in 2017 an exciting trip to Lesotho South Africa took place in the Summer of 2019 for children over the age of fourteen. This involved a project helping local children as well as trekking and a visit to a game reserve.”
Denny expands further on Forces Children’s Trust support:
“We also have an education fund to help meet the cost of extra-curricular lessons for the children and currently we are assisting with mathematics and dyslexia tuition as well as music and sports lessons.”
Please contact Denny Wise at the Forces Children’s Trust to see if they are able to help your children, or children you support:
Tel: 01737 361077
Email: denny.wise@forceschildrenstrust.org.uk
Web page: www.forceschildrenstrust.org.uk
